Can Clothing Protect You from UV Rays?

Clothes Protect You Less than You Think

There’s actually a word to describe how well clothes block UV radiation. Ultraviolet Protection Factor or UPF is the “SPF” of clothing. It’s used to describe the fraction of sun’s rays that can get through your threads. (Below is the ARPANSA’s breakdown of UPF and UV-blockage.)

The average plain white T offers a UPF of somewhere between 5 and 7 (Skin Cancer Foundation; Skin Cancer Foundation). Unfortunately, the clothes that offer the best protection also tend to be the worst to wear in hot weather:

Dark and bright fabrics absorb more UV rays than light fabrics (instead of letting them through)

Heavier fabrics let in fewer UV rays than lighter fabrics

Tighter weaves and knits offer more UV protection than looser weaves and knits

But wait! You don’t have to sweat yourself into heat exhaustion with heavy clothes just to be protected from the sun! Here are a few solutions (which work best when you put them all together!):

Option 1: UPF Protective Clothing

Sun protective clothing has to have a UPF between 15 and 50 to be marketed as protection, and many have a UPF of 50+. These clothes take the guesswork out of picking out clothes that will protect your from UV radiation.

Option 2: Rit Sun Guard

Adding UV protection to your closet doesn’t mean you have to buy a whole new wardrobe or start wearing wool coats in summer. Thanks to Skin Cancer Foundation-approved Rit Sun Guard® ($28.98 for six packs,amazon.com), you can wash UPF right into your clothing.

Rit Sun Guard®, which contains Tinosorb® FD, increases UPF by six-fold after one washing, and by 10-fold after two consecutive washings. Better yet? Garments washed with Rit Sun Guard® maintain a UPF of 30 for up to 20 launderings (Journal of Long-term Effects of Medical Implants).

Option 3: Slather Sunscreen in the Buff

You can avoid a lot of pain (and tan lines!) by rubbing on sunscreen before putting on clothing. By doing this, you ensure protection everywhere — meaning no weird burns where the collar of your shirt moves around. Extra points if you do this in conjunction with UV protective clothing!

Overall

How much sun protection clothes provide is variable, but you can do a lot to ensure that you’re protected without having to wear something unfashionable. Whether you buy UV-protective clothing, use Rit Sun Guard to add UPF, slather sunscreen all over before getting dressed, or (best option) all three, you can keep your delicate skin protected while still looking stylish.